Switch Leader Podcast

How To Fail At What Matters Most

So the title to this episode is obviously strange, and may leave you with some questions. The best question you could be asking, though, is "What matters most?" This week, James and Josh talk about what truly matters most, and how to protect it. 

The Idol of Sexuality

There is no doubt we live in a culture that worships sexuality. Unfortunately, our students are right in the cross hares of this attack. This episode is focused solely on equipping you, so that you can be most prepared to help your students navigate these conversations, and even help them walk through challenges they may be facing themselves. 

The Idol Of Sexuality notes  

Shifting Gears

We're nearing the end of the school near, so be careful not to coast. This week Josh talks with Nick Domesic about shifting gears during the summer months. Also, do you still have passion for Youth Ministry? 

Changing the Narrative

Sometimes we're guilty of thinking that the way we see our situation is the only way to see it. This week, we talk about how to Change the Narrative, and how to train your students to do the same. 

Your Student’s Have a Next Step...Don’t Let Them Miss It

You are a Switch Leader. That's obvious, why would I even make that statement? Well, because sometimes we hear that second part of our title so much that it just blends in and we forget how important it is. Being a leader isn't for everyone, but those who carry the title have a responsibility to carry out the meaning of the word. We are not here to take care of students for a few hours each week so their parents can have a night off. We are here to lead them. In this episode we try to cut out the things that can complicate what we do, and give you some clear actionable ways to lead your students toward their next step. 

Tips & Tricks For Leading a Great Small Group: Part 3

Week 3

Questions From Leaders

1. How as a leader do you deal with burnout? - Josh

2. What do I do when my students don’t pay attention to the message? - James 

3. Sometimes the teaching in the messages is hard for me to wrap my head around, let alone my students. What am I supposed to do on nights like that? - Kaitlyn

4. I started the semester with 10 students, and now I’m down to 2, if they even show up… What am I doing wrong? - James

5. I’m getting ghosted by parents. How do I re-engage them? What are some of the best ways to partner with parents in helping students? - Kaitlyn

6. What process have worked/not worked for bringing additional kids to the group/church? - Josh

7. What is the thing you struggle with most as a leader? - James

8. How to pastor/encourage students with a difficult home situation (divorce etc.)? - Josh

9. What are some best strategies for pastoring immature/or unengaged students? How am I supposed to deal with the one kid who is dysregulated and derails the conversation every week? - Kaitlyn

10. How do you lead someone through a personal issue with religion and keep them coming back, as well as with the church/ someone at the church? - James

11. I have been serving in Switch for a long time, but I can’t see the fruit/any difference in these kids. Is this really the right fit for me? - Josh

 

Tips & Tricks For Leading a Great Small Group: Part 2

This week, Switch Content Writer and High School Girls Small Group Leader, Kaitlyn Caffrey, shares some of her thoughts on how to lead a great small group. In this episode, Kaitlyn takes notes straight out of Jesus' playbook, and theirs no doubt that it will be beneficial to you, just as it was to her. 

Tips & Tricks For Leading a Great Small Group: Part 1

This week, James Meehan shares some of his experiences as a small group leader, and some tricks he's learned along the way. 

How To Make The Most Of Theme Nights

Do you love theme nights or do you hate theme nights? Either way, this episode is for you! Whether dressing like a hi-lighter for a glow night is your favorite vibe, or it makes you want to cry, our hope is that this conversation helps you approach those fun party nights with the best possible perspective and plan. 

Are You Feeling Discouraged?

Youth ministry is hard, and sometimes we just need reminded why we started doing this in the first place. This week, James and Josh try to help us remember why, and remind us what our role really is.